For many people, a vacation means sunbathing by the beach with a margarita in one hand and a pizza slice in the other. But if you are an adventure seeker like me, you must relate to me getting up at 5 AM to watch the sunrise and going for several outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and even whale watching!
If you happen to be in Vancouver, you must know that it is home to the Orca whale, the Grey whale, the Humpback whale, and the Minke whale. To spot these creatures, you can either rent a boat yourself or simply go on a whale-watching tour, I will save you the trouble and list out the four best tours for your perusal!
Downtown Vancouver
You must plan aย visit to Downtown Vancouverย for whale watching, as orcas feed on salmon in the Strait of Georgia, so the chances of you spotting these creatures increase. If you wish to have the perfect mammal viewing I would suggest you visit from March to October. As this is the peak season for whale-watching. The reason I will tell you- most of the whales migrate through these waters during these months.
When planning your trip to Vancouver, you must consider combining an exhilarating whale-watching excursion with a leisurely sightseeing tour of Victoria, a picturesque historic fishing village on Vancouver Island. Whether you opt for a seaplane, ferry, or the boat that guides you on the whale-watching adventure, itโs all about getting you there to soak in the charm and beauty of Victoria.
1. Seaplane Travel to Victoria andย Cruise
An aerial view of these creatures on the crossing of the Strait of Georgia can mesmerize anyone. If you also want to have this experience, then opt for a trip by seaplane to Victoria. The journey will begin at at the island capital with an exciting cruise through Haro Strait. There you will also encounter killer whales, sea lions, and seals. This tour is arranged for small groups. You will also get a chance to go whale-watching on a boat and spot the Southern Resident Killer whales up close.
2. Safari Tours
Watching whales in Safariย is a full-day tour from Vancouver, and you can travel on a comfortable and covered boat. The tour operators have a track record of whale sightings on 85% of the trips. The whale-watching tour includes a whole day trip on a warm and enclosed boat so that visitors can view wildlife and get tips from a naturalistโs point of view; it also includes free hotel pickups and drops.
Granville Island
Another fascinating location for watching whales in Vancouver that I must tell you is Granville Island. The place is also famous for its well-stocked and bustling public market, artist studios, entertainment venues, and beautiful waterfront dining, it is an excellent tourist location. You can board any of the four vessels owned byย Wild Whales Vancouver, some are open-air boats, and some are semi-covered, but all boats are equipped with washrooms and hydrophones.
Wild whales organize only one trip a day, so there is no question of rushing back to the dock for the next scheduled trip in a hurry. Whale-watching Vancouver on Granville Island boat can take up to 6 hours, and it is best to carry some provisions before starting the journey.
Steveston Village
For the ultimate whale-watching experience in the south of Vancouver, you can head to Steveston Village. This charming fishing village in the Southwest corner of Richmond boasts some of the finest whale sightings in Vancouver. Seabreeze Adventures provides four-hour tours in semi-covered or Zodiac-style boats, accompanied by an onboard naturalist/interpreter to enrich your experience. Plus, they offer shuttle pick-up services at Richmond or Vancouver hotels for just around a $10 fee, cutting down your trip costs tremendously.
White Rock
The fourth most fascinating place for whale watching awaits in White Rock, a stunning seaside town just north of the Canada/US border. White Rock Sea Tours operates from the pier along White Rock Beach, offering you an unforgettable experience.
I would like to provide some more details here. These tours depart daily at noon and travel across Semiahmoo Bay and into the Salish Sea. The tour is unique, with halts at the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island for lunch. The entire trip, with breaks included, will last nearly five hours. With lovely clicks of the seabirds, dolphins, and magnificent whales, it will be a day filled with surprises!
So, get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure in Vancouver, where whale watching offers a breathtaking crossover between you and nature. Your tour operators will reveal the secrets of these majestic species in front of stunning coastal scenery, immersing you in their world. And one thing is sure, each glimpse will leave an unforgettable impression on your heart. Have fun whale-watching and let me know your experience in the comments!
FAQs
Is it Better to Go Whale Watching in the Morning?
There is no ideal time of day to go whale watching.ย Whether you go out in the morning, midday, or evening, youโll always have a great chance of spotting whales and other marine species because whales are active day and night.
Is the Weather Chilly When Watching Whales?
Always check the weather forecast and keep in mind that the temperature can be 10-15 degrees lower on the water and that it may rain while youโre travelling.
If there is even the remotest possibility of rain in the forecast, it is best to dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes with rubber soles, and pack a rain jacket. Make sure you cover up with plenty of sunblock and a windproof hat.
Do Whales and Humans Get Along?
Whales are not aggressive, and even their relatives, the dolphin species, are frequently seen showing a strong desire to greet and interact with humans.
Last Updated on April 7, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
